If you gain weight, you will not be able to fly the plane, Air India is going to implement strict rules…read full report

New Delhi . Air India is going to implement a strict fitness policy for its pilots and cabin crew. Under this new rule, which will be effective from May 1, all permanent and contract crew members will be subjected to fitness test before and after the flight. Body Mass Index (BMI) has been made the main basis of this policy. If the weight of a member is found not to conform to the prescribed standards, he/she will not be allowed to fly the aircraft or engage in cabin service. The airline clearly states that considering the sensitivity of aviation services, physical fitness of crew members is essential for safety and operations.

According to the new guidelines, the ideal range of BMI has been kept between 18 to 24.9. If a member’s BMI is found to be more than 24.9, he will be categorized as overweight and will be removed from the roster with immediate effect. The salary of such members will also be cut and they will be able to return to duty only after controlling their weight. At the same time, underweight members with BMI less than 18 will be sent for seven days medical evaluation, the cost of which will have to be borne by them. If they are unable to clear the functional assessment, their payment will continue to be reduced until they achieve the fitness standards. According to an Air India spokesperson, this policy will not only enhance safety standards but will also help employees stay healthy and work for longer periods.

Along with fitness rules, Air India is also paying special attention to the operation of its flights amid the ongoing tension in West Asia. Despite the Iran crisis and regional instability, Air India Group plans to operate a total of 50 flights to West Asia on Sunday. This includes 20 regular flights to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and Muscat, the capital of Oman in association with Air India Express. Additionally, 30 special flights are being operated from UAE, Riyadh, Dammam and Muscat to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi and Bengaluru. The airline aims to provide safe and smooth air service to passengers even amidst stressful situations.